Winter is when most vacation spots begin to slow down, but that isn't the case in Palm Springs. This oasis becomes magical in winter, even though it can be visited year-round. Palm Springs is often overlooked as a winter destination, but there are many reasons to visit this season.
Palm Springs is the ideal desert location for those seeking relaxation or adventure. Winter is perfect for selfies, so be sure to send them to those shivering friends!
With so many reasons for visitors to spend winter in Palm Springs, below are only ten reasons (among many) why it should be the ultimate desert destination for the season.
10 Fabulous Weather
In the desert, the weather is one of the most notable benefits. It doesn't matter where one spends their time - whether it's warm temperatures in Palm Desert and Indio, a mild desert climate in Palm Springs, or a pleasantly cool evening in Joshua Tree, there's always a thermostat they will love. There is also very minimal rain in the winter. Temperatures are typically between seventy and eighty degrees.
Winter snowbirds and retirees flock to Palm Springs. During November and March, its population triples. No snowboards or skis in this neck of the woods!
Palm Springs' winter generally begins in late December and ends in mid-March. The coldest month is February, when the average high is 71° F
9 Vibrations Of The Season
Palm Springs embraces the holiday season wholeheartedly. An ice skating experience at Rancho Mirage's Renova Ice Rink is worthy of writing home. It is a sight not to be missed throughout the year, especially during the holidays when it comes to Robo Lights Sculpture Garden. With a magical wonderland of art, science fiction, sculptures, and an inclusive religious approach, it becomes a destination in its own right.
If you still pine for snow, you may find it in the San Jacinto Mountains, just a tram ride away. At the top, enjoy hot coffee and hot clam chowder with the ski lodge ambiance.
8 Outdoor Adventures
Hop on a bike and see the outdoor sights from a different perspective. Visit delightful parks, prestigious golf courses, and picturesque residential streets. Remember to take a moment to appreciate the palm trees and mountains.
Hiking abounds in Palm Springs. La Quinta Cove is at the forefront. It’s a great place to hike if you’re looking for something easy—Joshua Tree National Park, located on the other side of the cove.
A desert vacation is an unforgettable experience, whether climbing weathered granite boulders, camping under the stars, mountain biking the trail system, or enjoying the sea of wildflowers.
Looking for something extra special? Indulge in a daytime horse and carriage celebrity home tour of Palm Springs courtesy of Big Horse Carriage Co., available only from October through April (evenings year-round)
7 Become Part Of A Prestigious Film Festival
Feeling star-struck? In January, attend the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Bump into a few famous faces while enjoying one of the most sought-after film festivals in the country. Films from the latest releases as well as classics are shown here.
This organization aims to nurture and encourage the next generation of filmmaking talent, honor the great masters of world cinema, and introduce the film to a new audience.
The gala awards show is exciting and well attended, so secure your pass early.
6 Festivals For The Winter - Don't Miss It
During the winter months, Palm Springs hosts two fantastic festivals. Even though festivals may not be interesting to some, these two should not be missed.
- Modernism Week - During the cool month of February, this festival lasts 10–11 days. Various sales are featured, including double-decker bus tours and architectural walking tours. Modern art and architecture drive visitors to this incredible festival.
- Robolights - A real crown pleaser - especially on December 25th. This is an ever-changing art display during the holidays. Visitors love to see their favorite theme displayed.
5 Explore The Fun Museums
Museums are a great place to learn more about a certain historical topic or period. Here are some museums to visit during winter:
- Palm Springs Art Museum - This museum focuses on modern and contemporary art. To enjoy all it has to offer takes approximately two hours. Sculptures and exhibitions of contemporary art are sure to catch one’s attention.
- The Air Museum - Here, historic airplanes will be found. The museum has four hangars, each telling the story of a particular war or period.
The weekends are the best time to see a B-17 take off or get a chance to ride in the cockpit.
4 Shopping Galore
Shops and more shops! Palm Springs has an enormous number of upscale shops and boutiques to indulge in during the dead of winter. Definitely check out El Paseo in Palm Desert and the 30-acre waterfront view at The River in Rancho Mirage.
If home decor is of interest, the Uptown Design District in Palm Springs will satisfy any appetite. Visit Old Town La Quinta and fall in love with its charm and beauty.
Its luxurious window displays, towering palm trees, and lining streets with luxury cars are all hallmarks of Beverly Hills' famous Rodeo Drive. However, the affluent resort town of Palm Springs isn't to be outdone by other high-end shopping destinations.
3 Walk The Walk Of Stars
Established in 1992, Palm Springs Walk of Stars is located downtown. It is the perfect winter attraction during the day or evening. Many celebrities have engravings on the pavement and have spent considerable time in Palm Springs.
A visit to Palm Springs is not complete without seeing the Walk of Stars, which holds over 450 stars bearing the names of celebrities and notable locals. What a fun way to spend a winter afternoon in the sunshine.
Address: 10 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262.
2 Take A Dip In A Dive Bar
A dive bar is great for cheap drinks and fun during the cold winter months in Palm Springs. There are quite a few, so party hardy!
One of the most popular dive bars is Billy Reed’s. Featuring stained-glass windows, a gin tumbler, and freshly baked pies, it's an old bar dating back 43 years.
There is also the Bootlegger Tiki Bar. A handful of drinks are on offer, including the Pearl of Wisdom.
Palm Springs also has numerous fine dining establishments if this is preferable.
1 Take A Trip To The Living Desert Zoo And Gardens
For an even more immersive experience in the desert, take a trip to the Living Zoo and Desert Gardens. A living desert zoo and gardens are home to elephants, giraffes, and other animals from all over the world. Moreover, explore gardens and hike trails in a nature preserve. The company's motto is "Conservation First." Due to this, visitors are invited to interact with the animals.
For an indoor, all-natural experience during winter, stop by the Cactarium of the Moorten Botanical Garden. This is a cactus lovers' paradise.